Anal cancer symptoms: Seven key warning signs you should NEVER ignore

Anal cancer is a rare but potentially deadly form of cancer, affecting an estimated 1,200 people in the UK each year.

Worryingly the incidence rates are projected to rise by up to 43% in Britain between 2014 and 2035, according to Cancer Research UK.

You are more prone to the disease if you have HPV (human papilloma virus). The virus is extremely common and affects 80% of people at some point in their lives, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals.

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Other factors which increase your risk of developing anal cancer include smoking, having a weakened immune system and a history of genital warts.

Unfortunately anal cancer is hard to detect as one in five people experience no symptoms.

However, here are seven warning signs you should look out for:

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ALARMING: Anal cancer is expected to rise by 43% between 2014 and 2035

1. Bleeding from the back passage or noticing blood in your poo

2. Pain around the anal area

3. A small lump (or lumps) around the anus

4. Severe itching in the area around your anus

5. Discharge of mucus from your back passage

6. Changes in bowel movements, such as not being able to control them

7. Ulcers around the anus which spread to the buttocks

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Drinking alcoholic beverages can increase your risk of having cancer of the ophagus, colon, rectum and breast

Some of these symptoms are also associated with conditions such as piles, but it’s important to get checked out by your doctor.

If they think it might be anal cancer they will refer you to the hospital for tests.

The main type of treatment for anal cancer is a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, however surgery may also be required.